Catholic Bishop of Sokoto Diocese and founder of the Kukah Centre, Most Reverend Mathew Kukah, has voiced his support for the controversial tax reform bills proposed by President Bola Tinubu’s administration. In a recent interview on Channels Television’s Morning Brief, Bishop Kukah expressed optimism that the reforms would bring an end to the financial recklessness often exhibited by the country’s elite.
Bishop Kukah acknowledged the concerns surrounding the bills, which have been met with criticism from various quarters. Many Nigerians, particularly from the northern region, have argued that the proposed tax reforms could lead to an undue burden on the population, exacerbating existing economic challenges. Despite these criticisms, the cleric emphasized the potential for the reforms to foster development and address long-standing issues in the nation’s fiscal management.
“Nigeria is a very energetic country with people that are so eminently gifted and are roaring to soar at any time,” Bishop Kukah began, pointing to the untapped potential within the country. He explained that the real issue, however, lies in the failure of the state to create enough opportunities to channel the energy, vision, and diverse narratives of its citizens. This gap, he suggested, often leads to unrest and violence as people struggle to find a platform for their ambitions and grievances.
The Bishop also touched on the broader implications of the tax reforms, which he believes could help stabilize the country’s economy. “I hear you when you speak about all the issues identified. And I am excited about the issue of tax reform bills because, first, I know nothing about it. But I have started educating myself,” he added. Kukah underscored that any form of reform aimed at fixing Nigeria’s dysfunctional system must focus on rebuilding the country’s economic infrastructure.
The tax reforms, according to Bishop Kukah, could serve as the catalyst for ending what he described as Nigeria’s “financial recklessness.” He criticized the elites for mismanaging the country’s vast resources while the majority of Nigerians continue to live in poverty. “The irony of Nigerians living by the seaside and washing their faces with saliva is something we cannot ignore,” he remarked, referring to the stark contrast between the nation’s natural wealth and the widespread hardship faced by its citizens.
Kukah’s remarks are particularly significant as they come amid rising discontent with the proposed tax bills. Many critics have argued that the bills are disproportionately targeted at the northern region, exacerbating economic disparities and placing additional strain on already vulnerable populations. Despite these objections, Kukah remains hopeful that the reforms can lead to a more efficient and transparent fiscal system.
“The reforms should end the narrative of Nigerians living in a country that is so richly endowed but are spectators to the rascality and irresponsibility of the elites who continue to mismanage our resources,” Kukah said, expressing his belief that the reforms could help reduce the country’s reliance on the elites’ unchecked financial behavior. The Bishop stressed that accountability and fiscal responsibility are essential to the country’s progress.
Bishop Kukah also voiced his hope that the ongoing reforms would serve as a starting point for broader economic transformation in Nigeria. He believes that the country’s path to growth and development hinges on its ability to establish a culture of fiscal management and efficiency. “So I’m hopeful that this is the beginning of a very long journey of fiscal management and efficiency that can lead to the growth and development of the kind of country that we envision,” he concluded.
